Harlem Newcomer Azealia Banks Inks Deal With Universal Music

Female Harlem newcomer Azealia Banks has just inked a record deal with Universal Music, following the viral success of her song/music video "212."

The 20-year-old announced the deal, via Twitter (@azealiabanks), simply stating: "I am now officially signed to Universal Music."

According to Rap-Up.com, other labels were interested in Banks, including Kanye West who reportedly called her "the future of music."

Apparently, she was previously signed to U.K. imprint XL Recordings under the name Miss Bank$, but never released an album. Now, with a deal in place with Universal, she hopes to release her debut sometime after May.

Her video for "212" has become a viral sensation, racking up over 2.5 million views on YouTube.

After announcing her deal with Universal, Banks reflected on the rough times she's had and how things seem to be turning around.

"God dealt me a really fucked up hand at birth. Half the sh** I've been through & successfully gotten through would blow some of your minds," she wrote. "God just dealt me a new hand today. I reaaaaaaaaaaallllly good hand.

"I just wanna drink a million bottles of champagne and do a million bell kicks right now," Banks continued. "Lol, my mom says first thing I have to buy her with my money is this Sean John comforter set she's been eyeing at Macy's. Classic."